DC Central Kitchen Takes Job Training on the Road

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09.16.2009 --

Arlington County and DC Central Kitchen have joined to launch a 10-week Culinary Job Training pilot program for homeless and low income residents of Arlington. This combined effort is part of DC Central Kitchen's plan to scale our programs and Arlington County's 10 year plan to end homelessness.

The Arlington pilot program began in August, operating out of the Fairlington Community Center. The first class consists of 11 men and women pursuing culinary careers.

Similar to the program at DC Central Kitchen, the Arlington pilot program has three components: Life Skills, Employment Skills and Culinary Training.

The Life Skills component was developed through a partnership with New Hope Housing, Inc. The classes focus on helping students break the cycle of homelessness and also include a Money Smart series.

The Employment Skills component grooms students for an effective employment search as they learn skills related to computer literacy, cover letters, resumes, and job interviews. By week 10, students are well prepared to begin their career search.

The Culinary Training curriculum is packed with field trips that involve students in high-volume cooking at local restaurants, hotels and other foodservice operations. Students will participate in a joint field trip with DCCK students to Endless Summer Harvest, a hydroponic lettuce farm, followed by a field-to-plate class at DC Central Kitchen taught by Tim Miller of Mie N Yu Restaurant.

The Arlington students will graduate on November 6, 2009, signifying the successful replication of DC Central Kitchen's Culinary Job Training program.